Carousel to celebrate 20th anniversary with open house

Carousel Clothing and Collectibles will celebrate 20 years in business with an anniversary open house from Friday, April 28, through Sunday, April 30, in its current location, at 6094 Main St., Amherst.

According to a press release, the store, owned by Laura Scalfani, first opened at the corner of Main and Richfield streets in Williamsville.

With the help of family and friends, Scalfani painted, added shelves, built clothing racks, gathered merchandise and completed other projects for the store to be ready for its grand opening on May 8, 1997.

According to the press release, that particular date was chosen to honor the birthday of Scalfani’s maternal grandmother, Elsie Worsdell.

The press released stated that although Scalfani never met her grandmother, who died four months before she was born, she has always felt a closeness to the woman who inspired her. In addition, Scalfani’s paternal grandmother, Elizabeth Pavoni Scalfani, also had her own retail shop.

The release further stated that Scalfani has always felt her success was due to following in the footsteps of those two successful women.

After six years in business at the small shop at 5959 Main St., Scalfani moved the business into the larger building at its current location.

According to the press release, with much more room and many ideas of what new direction the business might take, Scalfani began business in the current location by seeking out artisans, crafters, furniture makers and many other people to feature in the shop.

She called special attention to local and USA-made items. Candles, lamps and light fixtures, linens, home decor, antiques, china, vintage and specialty greeting cards, and other women’s clothing items were included in the inventory.

The press release also stated that after 20 years in business, Scalfani looks back on the decision she made in 1997 to open a small shop as a special gift she gave herself.

“I wouldn’t change a thing about the way things have turned out,” Scalfani said. “In fact, I’m looking forward to 20 more busy years in a business I love.”

She added that the public is invited to come celebrate the anniversary, with the store open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day next weekend.

Patrons will be able to enjoy special sales and refreshments.

For more information about the store, visit its Facebook page by searching for “Carousel Clothing and Collectibles” or call 634-5959.